How to Optimize Your HVAC System

Oct 8, 2018

The HVAC system in your Midland, North Carolina, home is responsible for maintaining a comfortable atmosphere, whether it’s cold or hot outside. However, if the system isn’t optimized for efficient operation, you could end up spending a lot in monthly bills. Follow these simple tips to optimize your HVAC system and ensure that it’s running at peak efficiency.

Keep Up With Maintenance

Most people wouldn’t dream of going months or years between oil changes in their vehicle. However, those same people may not realize that regular HVAC maintenance is just as important as vehicle maintenance. Regular tuneups of your heating and cooling system are necessary to ensure that all components are functioning properly and the system is providing sufficient airflow. During a maintenance service, your technician will test the unit and the thermostat, open the furnace or AC and check the components, and make sure there are no gas or refrigerant leaks.

Although routine HVAC maintenance does come at a cost, it’s well worth it to save big on monthly bills and reduce the need for expensive repairs in the future. Keeping up with maintenance can also extend the lifespan of your system, which can help you save money. Your technician can confirm that the unit is optimized and running properly, ensuring a comfortable indoor atmosphere throughout the changing seasons.

Change the Filter

Another important step in the HVAC optimization process is changing the filter regularly. If you’re in the habit of changing it once a year (or less), now is the time to break that habit. Set yourself a reminder on your phone to swap it out at least once every few months. For those with allergies, changing it more often and using a filter with a higher minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) rating can help reduce symptoms.

When your HVAC filter is dirty and clogged, it can no longer restrict dirt, pollen, dander, dust, pet hair, and other debris from moving into the unit. As a result, your system won’t be able to operate as efficiently, causing your bills to go up. You’ll also waste a lot of energy and could end up putting extra pressure on the components, leading to excessive wear and premature breakdown.

Use Your Thermostat

HVAC optimization is basically impossible unless you’re using your thermostat as it is intended to be used. Programmable thermostats come with most newer HVAC systems, although many homeowners are upgrading to smart thermostats. You can optimize your unit by setting a schedule and sticking to it instead of making manual adjustments when you feel uncomfortable.

With a smart thermostat, you can take the optimization to the next level since many of these units come with features designed to reduce energy waste. Depending on which model you select, you may also be able to take advantage of features that sense movement in the home and automatically adjust when the house is empty or monitor the outdoor climate conditions and make small changes to the indoor temperature for maximum comfort.

Give It a Break

Running your cooling or heating system nonstop throughout the year is a good way to wear it out. Instead of overusing the unit, give it a break every now and then by using other methods to cool down or heat up, depending on the season. In the summer months, use ceiling and floor fans to keep air moving. You may also want to avoid using heat-producing appliances during the hottest part of the day, such as the dishwasher, oven, or clothes dryer.

When it’s chilly, bundle up in sweatshirts and blankets to stay cozy. Using a space heater to warm up the room you’re in can also take some of the pressure off of the heating system. If you have hot and cold spots in your home, consider adding a zoned system that gives you more control over certain areas. It’s also smart to keep your windows uncovered when it’s sunny since this allows some natural heat to warm up the inside of your home.

If your HVAC system still isn’t optimized after following these tips, contact us at Dulin Mechanical by calling 704-237-3641 to find out how we can help.